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When it comes to developing your craft of goalkeeping, the truth is quite simple, club training alone isn’t enough. If you watch and listen to interviews with goalkeepers making headlines, you’ll notice a common trait and theme, most of them credit their success to consistent, focused work done outside of club sessions. Especially for youth and young adult goalkeepers playing in competitive club environments like ECNL, GA, or NPL, it’s hard to find a single program that truly develops every part of the craft, the physical, technical, and mental sides of the position.<img id="sr0vg69qkdmh0q70fv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0oYSpQmZ2YvppI7Esw07alVQCC1uSyuk9fzRDuMPIwyNPxgwD7BV4kTHLw5qMUI8.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 5%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="5%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0oYSpQmZ2YvppI7Esw07alVQCC1uSyuk9fzRDuMPIwyNPxgwD7BV4kTHLw5qMUI8.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 5%;">I took a lot planning, research, and coordination to find and build that kind of outside club support I have around me today. I needed people who could help me grow in every area of the sport and then fit into my schedule as a student-athlete. My training circle now includes six to seven coaches and trainers, each with their own focus. I watch college and pro matches film, studying the training footage, listening to goalkeeper podcasts (Inside the 18 &amp; Jillian Loyden from The Keeper Institute) and use programs that help me build the mental side of the sport (Female Footballers). Between school work and soccer training, my week is pretty filled up but wouldn’t want it anything other way. My day one motto has always been joy not job.&nbsp;And my why is simple, I love my sport. I’m addicted to goalkeeping. And I know that finding and sticking to a solid, well-rounded training program is what’s going to take me further, not just in my skills, but in my career and craft. Every goalkeeper has different strengths, weaknesses, and schedules, but the one thing I believe all great GKs would agree on is commitment to extra training and building the habits that turn potential into performance is what changes the game.<figure id="figure-cofws83apdmh0r7grc"><img id="cofws83apdmh0r7grc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18pKmModTK22YER7vEiihzxa2NkWZMwO0Qs3grMAQI8pOVW9PoFof3ggskjdCkvu.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18pKmModTK22YER7vEiihzxa2NkWZMwO0Qs3grMAQI8pOVW9PoFof3ggskjdCkvu.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>For me, it starts before I even step on the pitch or into the gym, with the right gear. Having the right gloves, cleats, and training apparel isn’t about looking the part; it’s about protection and performance. Having the right GK gloves to protect my hands and wrists and give me the grip and comfort I need to focus on the work, not my gear. When I’m diving on turf or handling close-range shots, that difference in quality really matters.Next comes building the goalkeeper’s body I need and want for my style of play. Every GK’s physique looks different. In the gym my focus is on explosiveness, speed, and strength. In the gym my training focus is on my explosiveness, speed, and strength. I do a lot of plyometric and explosive movements, box jumps, lateral bounds, resistance sprints, and anything that helps me build quick-twitch power and reaction speed. Having this kind of training directly helps me improve me having faster dives, stronger pushes, and sharper recoveries in goal. I’m in the gym Monday through Thursday working on those areas.Then there’s the technical work, which I do through both club and private goalkeeper sessions. Any good GK knows our job goes way beyond just “saving shots.” A real program covers everything from clean ball handling, controlled parries, recovery saves, efficient footwork, balanced positioning, smart distribution under pressure, and agility work that keeps your reactions sharp. At youth to u18 levels, many clubs don't have time to focus on each keeper individually, so that's another reason why having your own outside training is important.<figure id="figure-px8apgko8mh0q7o3q"><img id="px8apgko8mh0q7o3q" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/ee6BY6LlWAWpJJ5Gc2T3I8OLsgBxgExrsNfUuLMTdZfYHrv0oe7jXlrp5iUc6pkV.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/ee6BY6LlWAWpJJ5Gc2T3I8OLsgBxgExrsNfUuLMTdZfYHrv0oe7jXlrp5iUc6pkV.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>I train with different GK coaches for different skills, and because goalkeeper coaches are in such high demand, I make sure to schedule at least one or two sessions a week outside of club. That consistency helps with my development.&nbsp;Something I want other goalkeepers to understand though, is that everyone’s schedule will look different, and that’s how it should be. No two GKs have the same training program. Trying to copy what another keeper training program looks like does just because you think they’re more successful won’t help you reach your full potential. Your training has to reflect your own goals, your body, and your schedule. Some keepers train four days a week, others six. Other gks need more gym time, some need more recovery. I feel it is important to have a lot of structure, consistency, and a routine that keeps me improving week after week.For me a typical week schedules looks like, two to three field sessions focused on handling, footwork, and shot-stopping; two to four gym sessions centered on explosiveness; one active recovery day; and one full rest day to reset mentally and physically. That consistency, over time, is what helped me from becoming static and instead helped me keep moving up.The bottom line is, goalkeeping is a craft. The best don’t rely on club sessions alone, they build their own path outside of them. I truly believe that a structured, consistent, personal training program is the foundation for long-term success as a GK. Train smart, train consistently, and most importantly, train like your goals depend on it. Because they do if you want to take your career to the next level.<figure id="figure-iato4ls6zmmh0r7xnf"><img id="iato4ls6zmmh0r7xnf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dbDaEaqIUpBkCNb7LDzqFxTidmjtry2lcuCEqOzaRb5zJsKzuw675id3SeqRDdu.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

The “Why”: Why a Solid Goalkeeper Training Program Outside of Club Soccer Matters

My name is Carolina Flores, and I am a goalkeeper playing for SA City’s 07/08 GA team; I am passionate about soccer and the goalkeeper position, and these passions have allowed me to see daily life from a different perspective while understanding the importance of maximizing every opportunity to improve as a player and as a person.<figure id="figure-9kt1qof2famgfh2uin"><img id="9kt1qof2famgfh2uin" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/184O6psBqPnGRXVQyXwTNH0rd4XlYu3TEJcNZRGtWGU9Me1L0PIcbj4CAAAffr5y.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/184O6psBqPnGRXVQyXwTNH0rd4XlYu3TEJcNZRGtWGU9Me1L0PIcbj4CAAAffr5y.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 30%;"></figure>The majority of the challenges I have faced are mental challenges, from thinking about the “what if’s” of injuries to actually experiencing them and their setbacks, or even doubt, fear, and hesitation masking my everyday thoughts and actions in training and in games; however, many of these mental challenges that I have moved in front of have improved my abilities as a player and my mentality when I play.My passion for this game has kept me looking up and focused on the future I hope to achieve. It keeps me grounded and constantly reminds me to enjoy the process and the work I am doing now to reach my goals.<figure id="figure-s8billqffmimgfh81zw"><img id="s8billqffmimgfh81zw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30uRUMst4SPG8rWFGOLuBDcpwgv9afyUCtWg0dya2XgWA5mB1SWp1tAfzkzLpLZ1.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 85%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="50%" data-positionY="85%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>After an injury I experienced earlier this year, I struggled during the recovery process, often trying to rush back to training and feeling like I wasn’t doing enough, not allowing myself to appreciate the progress I was making. During this time, however, I found that my strong mental drive to train and return to the field reminded me how much I truly love this sport.The lessons I have learned have driven me to be more consistent, determined, and willing to put in the effort and work necessary to achieve my goals.<figure id="figure-51u9z7oeyimgfh4nbx"><img id="51u9z7oeyimgfh4nbx" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8hinOlYUWh8jTPDIy1KreDHRTMNrxa4xAvwHscvXe89lvRi8fMOiGLEEfg3MU6vo.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="35%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8hinOlYUWh8jTPDIy1KreDHRTMNrxa4xAvwHscvXe89lvRi8fMOiGLEEfg3MU6vo.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;"></figure>I have also learned the importance of trusting the process and focusing on what I am doing for my own goals. It’s hard to remain focused, consistent, and determined when comparing your progress or achievements to anyone else’s, and this advice is something I hope others can apply as well.

How My Passion Drives Me Through Challenges

In the world of competitive sports, especially at elite levels, identity isn’t optional, it’s everything. For goalkeepers, it can make the difference between getting overlooked and getting recruited. Between being just another player on the roster and being the one coaches remember. Your GK identity isn’t just about your style of play. It’s your personal brand. It’s how you show up on and off the pitch, how you’re perceived, and what sets you apart.At top programs and clubs, everyone is talented. Everyone has impressive stats. Everyone has highlight reels and rankings on recruiting forums. That’s why it’s more important than ever, especially with new NCAA roster caps and most programs now only taking 3 GKs instead of 4, to find what makes you stand out.Ask yourself:What’s your GK identity?What’s your GK presence?What’s your GK voice and style of communication?What’s your GK look?What’s your GK mentality, on and off the pitch?Recruiters and coaches are now looking and watching everything:How you walk in with your team.How you act when benched.How you interact with your coach and parents after a tough loss.How you warm up.How you bounce back after conceding.How you communicate with your back line.How you carry yourself off the pitch.How you treat other GKs, especially those you split time with or compete against.&nbsp;This last one is huge. I’ve seen top GKs miss out on opportunities because they didn’t align with the unspoken but powerful “GK union” code that most keepers live by. Every one of these moments feeds into your GK identity.Building your GK identity isn’t about putting on a fake persona either when top college coaches or programs are around. It’s about turning up the volume on who you already are. Your personal style, your mindset, your values, packaged with intention.Whatever your GK edge is, own it. Don’t copy others. Everyone’s development and path are different. Trust yourself. Sharpen your personal brand. Then show it.Because the reality is coaches from top programs don’t remember average. They remember impact. When they’re going through highlight reels, player stats, and scanning social profiles, your emails, you need to make them stop. Your GK identity is the hook. It’s what makes them want to see more.And today, your GK identity isn’t just your performance on the pitch. It’s what you post and share. What you say. How you engage. The story you tell both visually and verbally.For me, I stay focused on the core of my GK foundation. My biggest strength is mentality, how I handle pressure, setbacks, and the leadership role. Then there’s my GK communication and presence on the pitch: loud, direct, encouraging, strategic. My footwork and confidence with the ball at my feet are also standout traits, based on consistent feedback from college coaches.Off the field, I’m known for my advocacy work, which has helped build a digital footprint that aligns with how I want to grow in soccer and use my platform to make an impactSo the take away I hope those reading this walk away with is that too many student-athletes and GK athletes rely on talent alone and hope someone takes notices. But in today’s game, being good is no longer good enough. You have to be memorable. That starts with knowing who you are, then turning that identity into your signature.<blockquote>Because the truth is, if you don’t define your identity, someone else will. And it might not be the version that gets you further in your career where you want to go.</blockquote>

Goalkeeper Identity

<blockquote>My name is Drew Novaes and I am a goalkeeper at the University of Pacific. I played on a very competitive ECNL team while I was in high school and that was when I realized I wanted to play soccer at the next level.</blockquote><figure id="figure-5fnpcyo2dcmbfgzakh"><img id="5fnpcyo2dcmbfgzakh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1ejLx99QV3nEgXeyzowf79r9qKbaIUc4u2vBERzFrxT1O3ZfdfI6daV7ZWFaDhGN.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 40% 15%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="40%" data-positiony="15%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1ejLx99QV3nEgXeyzowf79r9qKbaIUc4u2vBERzFrxT1O3ZfdfI6daV7ZWFaDhGN.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 40% 15%;"></figure>&nbsp;I began my recruiting process pretty early. I attended my first ID camps the summer after my eighth grade year in order to get noticed early and begin making connections with schools. Throughout high school, I attended more ID camps and went to college showcases with my ECNL team, which helped tremendously with exposure to college coaches. I began connecting with a couple of schools but San Jose State continued to stand out to me throughout the whole process. I eventually committed my junior year of high school because I felt that San Jose State met my athletic and academic goals and the coaching staff was welcoming. My freshman year was quite humbling to say the least and I struggled mentally and physically. The transition from living at home with your parents and playing club to living alone and playing collegiate soccer isn’t something that anyone can prepare you for until you live it. Having to manage your school work and sport while still prioritizing your mental and physical health is very challenging, but also rewarding. I ended up redshirting my freshman year but I learned so much about myself and enjoyed meeting new people along the way. I got to travel during my sophomore year and loved every second of it. I was finally getting the hang of what Division I collegiate soccer was like—but deep down, I still wasn’t as happy as I knew I could be. I started considering the idea of transferring, especially as changes in the coaching staff took place. I wanted to be somewhere I felt valued and appreciated for the player and person that I am. I decided to enter the transfer portal and at first it was scary, but I kept telling myself that everything happens for a reason and that I will end up in a better place. A couple weeks after being in the portal, I finally found my new home. I committed to the University of Pacific and I was beyond excited for this new journey.<blockquote>I’m sharing my story for a couple of important reasons—most of all, to help young athletes recognize their worth. You are more than just a player in the game; you are a whole person, navigating life beyond the sport. I’m sharing my story to help athletes understand that failing—again and again—is a part of the journey. What matters most is how you respond. At the end of the day, you only have so many years of eligibility, so make them count. Choose environments that support your growth, prioritize your well-being, and allow you to enjoy the game you love.&nbsp;</blockquote><figure id="figure-dzuhf0tzombfhele3"><img id="dzuhf0tzombfhele3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26p58aMLB1TFP5sT3P2tQe7Q8tsUHTtqjrYqCUpHyPgMl9lN2EJeNMhSrwxTAN3N.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="35%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26p58aMLB1TFP5sT3P2tQe7Q8tsUHTtqjrYqCUpHyPgMl9lN2EJeNMhSrwxTAN3N.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;"></figure><h3>Choosing My First D1 Program</h3>Initially, I was drawn to San Jose State (SJSU) because of the appealing culture and great facilities. I believed that it was the perfect distance from home and that I would be challenged academically and athletically. I committed pretty early in the recruiting process, so I was able to develop a relationship with my future teammates early on. I visited the school many times and also got a bit more understanding of the coaches’ style of play. I was young and naive, and had no idea what was to come. Everything seemed great.&nbsp;During the recruiting process, my main goal was to play division one soccer. My whole life up to this point was centered around soccer, so I knew nothing else. I worked my butt off in order to get noticed by coaches, so once I finally began talking to coaches my junior year, all of my goals and expectations of playing at the next level seemed to be falling into place. In all honesty, I don’t think I truly knew what I wanted and valued in a program because I hadn’t been in an environment that challenged me to think about what I truly needed to thrive. I made my decision to commit to SJSU solely based on what felt right at the time.&nbsp;Looking back on my junior and senior years of high school, I wish I had been given more information and felt better prepared to decide where I wanted to spend the next four years. In my opinion, the recruiting process and collegiate sports were completely sugar-coated, and I wish I had known what I was truly walking into—beyond the phone calls and campus tours.<figure id="figure-pb9aiez2hwmbfhioih"><img id="pb9aiez2hwmbfhioih" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29fgTlW7lvnbG1InV2AUkuePJGHipE3D2zyRpekfRKiGrAzENHlWkLcRG1UTUIWT.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 90% 25%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="90%" data-positiony="25%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29fgTlW7lvnbG1InV2AUkuePJGHipE3D2zyRpekfRKiGrAzENHlWkLcRG1UTUIWT.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 90% 25%;"></figure><h3>The Reality of D1 Soccer</h3>The transition from club level soccer to D1 collegiate soccer was a change for me, but I adjusted pretty quickly. I would say the most challenging aspect was the lifestyle change and learning to live independently while also prioritizing my academics. Being a college athlete at any division is very challenging but once you learn how to organize your academics, develop a routine, and manage your time effectively, it becomes easier to handle the demands and actually enjoy the experience. Soccer wise, the speed of play was quicker than the club level of play that I was used to, but it doesn’t take much time to adjust if your coach sets you up to succeed.&nbsp;Certain strategies that helped me succeed academically included planning each day and keeping a to-do list of everything I needed to complete. I also maintained a separate digital planner on my computer with all my classes, homework assignments, and due dates. In addition, it’s important to build strong connections with your professors so you feel comfortable asking for help, staying on top of missed work due to travel, and showing them that you’re committed both in the classroom and on the field.I came from a very competitive club team where everyone contributed to the team’s success and training involved the entire squad—regardless of who played the previous weekend—so, college soccer was very different in that sense. It’s more difficult to break through and play, especially as a freshman, so coming in mentally and physically ready will set you apart from the rest and eventually lead to success. However, even if you come in prepared, ready to compete and deserving of a chance, playing time is still not guaranteed—and that was something I didn’t fully understand at the time. When you aren’t given a chance to compete and prove to your coaches and team that you deserve to play, overtime, it begins to wear on your mental health and causes you to question if you even want to play anymore. At this point in my career, I had little to no confidence in myself anymore, but I’ve always had high expectations for myself, so I kept working hard.At this point, I relied on my why. Why did I keep showing up for myself, for my teammates, and for the game I loved, even when things felt heavy or when I felt overlooked. Holding onto that purpose kept me grounded and reminded me that my journey mattered.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-0o5j1hid57mbfhw3do"><img id="0o5j1hid57mbfhw3do" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31Qt3NfQzH5C5ZrZFhpcfMAnd8pu20ayM20Mcl2MlJO2yeURrYUtQ2pX5dOmuiFi.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 70% 10%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="70%" data-positiony="10%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31Qt3NfQzH5C5ZrZFhpcfMAnd8pu20ayM20Mcl2MlJO2yeURrYUtQ2pX5dOmuiFi.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 70% 10%;"></figure><h3>Making my Decision to Tranfer</h3>My two years at SJSU taught me a lot about what I truly value in a program and what kind of environment I need in order to succeed. As I began reflecting on my time there, I realized I didn’t feel like the best version of myself. The environment didn’t feel as professional as I had hoped, and something was missing. I wanted to be held to high standards, but I also craved a strong sense of culture and connection within my team—both of which were lacking.At first, I almost didn’t want to admit I was even considering transferring. I didn’t want to be seen as someone who walks away when things get tough. But over time, I came to understand that my situation was different. If I truly wanted to enjoy my college experience, I couldn’t just wait around and hope things would change.To make things more complicated, a coaching change happened halfway through the spring semester, which was a tough transition for the entire team. That period made it even clearer that my time at SJSU was coming to an end. And while the idea of starting over somewhere new was scary, I knew deep down that it was a necessary step if I wanted to grow—not just as a player, but as a person.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-drzkny0wwgmbfixsjh"><img id="drzkny0wwgmbfixsjh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13RvoYk1QPknqgjIzEWHnIrkbu2SvkHjz9aouZnD1gLJiBLrHlKlMMuUVAWAAn5V.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13RvoYk1QPknqgjIzEWHnIrkbu2SvkHjz9aouZnD1gLJiBLrHlKlMMuUVAWAAn5V.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Navigating The Transfer Process</h3>Once I entered the transfer portal, things moved quickly—I started receiving emails from coaches and reaching out to programs. But this time around, I knew I had to dig deeper and figure out what I truly valued in a school and athletic program. I took a step back and asked myself important questions: Would I still want to attend this school if I wasn’t playing soccer there? Did I care more about the facilities or about genuinely enjoying my experience? I focused on long-term goals—how the school could benefit me after graduation or prepare me for post grad—and whether it offered the academic programs I was passionate about. To narrow down my options, I listed the pros and cons of each school, considered how each place made me feel, and ultimately chose the one that felt like the best personal and academic fit. I knew I had to visit these schools in order to make a confident decision, so I took about a week to visit the schools that I was interested in and I really went off the vibes of the school and coaching staff. In order to feel confident in my decision, after each visit I mentally told myself I was going to attend that school to see how it truly felt—emotionally, academically, and athletically—before comparing it to my other options. Thankfully, at the end of my visits I knew which school was right for me because of my preparation going into each visit. Making sure to ask the important questions and truly getting an idea of what going to school there would be like is so important in order to feel confident in your decision. &nbsp;I also learned not to fall for surface-level appeal; some programs sound perfect on paper because coaches are trained to sell them, but it's crucial to talk to current or former players and ask hard questions about their actual experiences. Don't get swayed by the most well-known Division I name or other people’s opinions—go where you feel you belong. Keep your options open too, even if that means considering junior colleges. Overall, prioritize what matters most to you—not just now, but for your future.<blockquote>My biggest piece of advice for anyone looking to commit to a college or transfer to another program is to think long term and consider whether each school aligns with your future goals. </blockquote>Also, I know it’s hard being in high school and not necessarily having much information on what college sports is really like or what it will be like to move away from home/live independently, but that’s why it’s so important to ask questions, do your research, and talk to current or former players to get a real sense of what to expect. There’s no strict timeline or rush to commit to a college early just for the sake of it—make sure it’s truly the best fit for you academically, athletically, and socially.<figure id="figure-y41cpigxkfmbfij7d6"><img id="y41cpigxkfmbfij7d6" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9TNDuhFWVVeJrQ1JiOM5JlADSDpUMYd9ubk7Vmc5sRfrW4YfuBewxqK3BAzeFUoY.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9TNDuhFWVVeJrQ1JiOM5JlADSDpUMYd9ubk7Vmc5sRfrW4YfuBewxqK3BAzeFUoY.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>My Experience at My New D1 Program</h3><blockquote>If you are processing the idea of transferring, I would sit down and be honest with yourself about whether you believe you are truly happy where you are. There are obviously many factors that contribute to being happy at a school—social life, athletics, academics, and location all play a role. You might be enjoying some aspects but not others, and that’s completely normal. The key is figuring out what matters most to you. Being clear about your priorities when choosing a program will help guide you toward a better fit and set you up for success.If you’re thinking about transferring, my biggest advice is to be honest with yourself, ask the hard questions, and think long term. Don’t make a decision based on pressure or outside opinions. Talk to current or former players, do your research, and focus on what you want—not just for now, but for your future. Transferring can feel overwhelming, but it can also be the best decision you make for your personal and athletic growth.</blockquote>

My D1 Journey: Transferring and Growing as a College Goalkeeper

I was listening to a podcast the other day and a topic came up that I think a lot of goalkeepers can relate to: when someone says a GK has “good footwork,” what exactly are they talking about?Because the more I’ve talked with different coaches, the more I’ve realized: it really depends on who you ask.I’ve had to start being specific when I tell people footwork is one of my strengths. Not everyone sees the same picture when they hear that word. Some coaches immediately think of distribution, clean passes, solid punts, accurate goal kicks. Others picture sharp lateral movement and quick resets around the box. And some think of how comfortable a keeper is under pressure when the ball is at their feet.For me, it’s all of that, but it’s also more.Most of my footage comes from Veo, and that kind of video doesn’t always show the full range of footwork of a goalkeeper unless a coach is watching in person. So I’ve had to get better at describing what I bring to the table.My footwork foundation comes from futsal and being included in field player drills during training. I’ve spent years developing comfort with the ball in tight spaces. I like drawing attackers in, creating space with quick, controlled movements, things like hold-off turns, side-to-side drags, step-over cuts, La Croqueta feints. These aren’t just flashy touches. They help me stay composed, shift defenders, and open up play. I’m also confident stepping out of the 18 when it’s on, staying calm under pressure, breaking lines, keeping play alive.<figure id="figure-bv5u6qn0fdm9x20dlu"><img id="bv5u6qn0fdm9x20dlu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/53pO8b2Bj617NV7coQ0BStCfFy0L3wYDlJgv22rnCPv646zj1O9AkclNjVMRE6t8.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/53pO8b2Bj617NV7coQ0BStCfFy0L3wYDlJgv22rnCPv646zj1O9AkclNjVMRE6t8.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>I won’t lie, sometimes it doesn’t work perfectly. There are risks, and I’ve made mistakes. Last year during a tournament I was a little too confident and kind of showy and got scored on. But I grow from each one. That’s part of what makes goalkeeping exciting for me. I want to bring something unique to the position. I’m not trying to copy someone else’s style, I’m building my own.And yes, I’ve got the distribution side too, kicks, passes, clipped balls into space. But that’s just one layer. Footwork, to me, is a full skill set. It’s a mindset. It’s a way of reading the game and expressing your style.So when we talk about goalkeepers with “good footwork,” I think we need to get more specific. Because it’s not just one thing. It’s a whole toolkit. And every keeper uses it a little differently.

What Does “Good Footwork” Really Mean for a Goalkeeper?

My name is David Sweeney I currently play for The Town FC the affiliate club with the San Jose Earthquakes. We play in MLS Next Pro, which is a third division league in the United States made up of both clubs affiliated with and not affiliated with MLS first teams. Before playing for the Town I played club soccer at De Anza Force for the Development Academy. After high school I then went to college at my home town university San Jose State (SJSU). At SJSU I earned the opportunity to have my first start versus University of San Francisco and from there I took the spot and did not look back. Over my 5 seasons at SJSU I played in over 70 games. In those 70+ games I made 281 saves and kept 20 clean sheets leading the school record books in both categories.<figure id="figure-hrcoxo9dfam9hxifcw"><img id="hrcoxo9dfam9hxifcw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29WqwZkCuMmbDlGkVwZipcoUwkQZusF6ZlUXkplvA2CnlItOJRqYXiUSaXoQ6xkn.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29WqwZkCuMmbDlGkVwZipcoUwkQZusF6ZlUXkplvA2CnlItOJRqYXiUSaXoQ6xkn.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>From College Fields to Pro Aspirations</h3>Before the school records and signing my first pro contract I started playing Goalkeeper when I was 13 years old. In this day and age that seems kind of late but at the time I was splitting my time between goalkeeper and center back. But near the end of the spring season our starting goalkeeper decided to quit playing soccer so I then became the full time guy. Over the next year I spent extra hours trying to improve at the weakness I had. My coach at the time would spend extra time with me to help me improve the basics. Near the end of my 8th grade year after lots of success with my current team I got the opportunity to try out for De Anza Force. I got the spot and spent the 4 years improving as a goalkeeper and as a human because driving everyday forty five minutes there and back to training took lots of commitment and focus on and off the field.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-isa096enyem9hxizk8"><img id="isa096enyem9hxizk8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/2b3vyAZnZNw4x2kg2LZWHnvpOdS7i65GdpWzqAk6fkC4yFbSYmeZPFTgFqDCmZ4v.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="20%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/2b3vyAZnZNw4x2kg2LZWHnvpOdS7i65GdpWzqAk6fkC4yFbSYmeZPFTgFqDCmZ4v.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;"></figure><h3>Embracing the Professional Challenge</h3>During the days at De Anza Force playing pro soccer was always in the back of my mind. But it wasn’t until my junior year in college did I see it as a reality. During that year my team and I lead the league with the most clean sheets and I lead the league in all goalkeeping statistics. From this time I truly believed I could make it pro. Before this realization I had already put into place a strict regime of how I slept, ate, and did extra training. When I realized playing pro was a possibility I doubled down on this process and did more work. &nbsp;After my senior year I got a trial for The Town. I played very well in the scrimmages I was invited to as well as the initial two week preseason invite I had received from those scrimmages.<figure id="figure-pygvz422ynm9hxjadc"><img id="pygvz422ynm9hxjadc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/cp8Ilwo1WKecFfecwxvdWGrYgOtcEA0dpdlXaA5E1oDiy5vJks8IL1bDxPIPZarE.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/cp8Ilwo1WKecFfecwxvdWGrYgOtcEA0dpdlXaA5E1oDiy5vJks8IL1bDxPIPZarE.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Consistency &amp; Commitment: Lessons on the Pro Stage</h3>After the two week period the staff of The Town told me they were not going to sign me but said I could stick around and be a training player and hope that something changes and a spot opens up. Now at this time my perception of professional soccer had been turned on its head. As I grew up I always thought of pro soccer as a glamorous lifestyle that if you were good enough you made it and when you made it there was plenty of money and no more worries. I was completely wrong. As the months went by and I continued to train with the team a couple key factors stuck out to me that differentiated college soccer and professional soccer. First, you must perform everyday. What I mean by this is you must be ready to train physically and mentally at your 100% every single day. In college there were days where the team may have been doing an easy day or not training at all but at the professional level you must be switched on all the time. Second, consistency is your key to success. During my first two weeks at preseason with The Town I killed it. I was the best goalkeeper out there including the one they had already signed. But the third week rolled around and my performance had dropped. Then the fourth week the same thing. The goalkeeper coach pulled me aside and asked if everything was ok. I told him yes and he told me I need to get it together or I’m out. This was a wake up call for me. I had to analyze everything I was doing on and off the field that was holding me back from performing at my best. As the year went on I started to figure out my process of how I can be more consistent. To this day I am still trying to master the skill of consistency. After about seven months of training with The Town circumstances changed and I was able to secure a contract. That next weekend I played and got a shutout. It was a great feeling but I knew consistency was the key. I played well over the next five games and earned Goalkeeper of the month for all of MLS Next Pro.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-o3n1ttyx2m9hx75q6" class=""><iframe id="o3n1ttyx2m9hx75q6" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nPHAERG5bbE" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPHAERG5bbE" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nPHAERG5bbE" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>From my journey there are a couple key takeaways. <blockquote>First, focus on consistency and the only way to have consistency when playing goalkeeper is focusing on “Your Process.” </blockquote>If you focus on your process no matter the result of training or games you will always have the process to focus on. The more you focus on giving your 100% to “Your Process” the more likely you are to succeed. <blockquote>Second, be intentional with your process. For me anyone can show up everyday and go through each task with minimum effort. But if you want to improve you must go into every training, film session, gym session, recovery period with intent. </blockquote>Without intent nothing will be achieved. Moving forward, a big goal of mine is to play a larger role in the success of The Town this year. Last year I got the chance to play 5 games and this year my goal is to play 10 games.&nbsp;

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